As part of efforts to foster and promote the game of chess at the grassroots, the second Israel Nwanganga Invitational Chess event for juniors aged 15 and under, sponsored by Mr. Marizu Nwokoma, fondly called Rizu, has held at Chevron Recreation Centre, Gbagada.

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The event, which is part of an opportunity to give back to society is due to Rizu’s love for the game and his desire to give young Nigerians access to the numerous benefits of chess.

According to Rizu, his chess background has helped him a lot in decision-making in his career and personal life – how to strategize, how to develop a vision, and how to be agile, reason he wants young Nigerians to have the same opportunity to grow their strategic and decision-making skills through chess.
He added that another inspiration for the tournament is his father, Mr. Israel Nwanganga who passed away at the age of 84. Israel had suffered from Alzheimer’s disease before his death.
Given that the disease affects the brain, Rizu thought the need to sponsor a chess tournament; as the chess game helps to nurture the brain. He therefore named the tournament after his father.
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At the tournament, there were 46 participants – 23 each in the under 10 years and the 11 to 15 years categories.

The sibling duo from Marvelvine Montessori School, 10-year-old Nwankwo Chiamaka (highest rated player in the tournament and a national player at the highest level of chess in Nigeria) and her junior brother, 8-year Nwankwo Somtochukwu Jason, emerged as the overall champions in their respective categories. They both concluded the tournament with an impressive 5.5 points each out of a possible 6 points, solidifying their dominance in their age groups.
Chiamaka triumphed in the 11-15 years old category.  Adepoju Ayomide, the second-highest rated player in the 11-15 age group, secured an overall second position, clinching the top spot in the Boys category. Emilola Adekunle, Adeyemi Adesire, Audu Jonah, and Ogundare Tumise shared the second position in the same category, with Obe Amir earning the Best U12 prize.
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In the girls’ category, Patrick Floresaint and Aanuoluwayimika Adepoju secured the 2nd and 3rd positions, respectively, while Odafe-Efemuai Ajibola claimed the Best U12 girl prize.
In the Under 10s, Somtochukwu claimed the top spot. Agusionu Kevin and Agusionu Zita secured the 2nd and 3rd positions, while a thrilling tie for the 4th and 5th positions featured Ibok Abasionu Samuel, Edward Peculiar, Azeez Maruf, Evbuomwan Victoria, and Dafiewharen Divine.

All winners were awarded generous cash prizes.  Also, all participating players were awarded brand new chess sets and a certificate.